5 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do With Steel Wool

When your pet needs a bath, place a wad of steel wool over the tub drain to catch loose hair before it travels into the plumbing. Be sure to promptly remove so the drain cover doesn't rust.

Katja Cho

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2. Sand woodwork

Unlike sandpaper, extra-fine steel wool conforms to irregular shapes, like curved table legs or doorway molding. Use it to smooth a primed surface or clean up drips between paint coats, then wipe away any dust with a damp cloth.

3. Keep pests out

Look for gaps around doors or holes where electrical or cable lines enter the house, then fill with steel wool, which mice and other rodents can't chew through. For more permanent results, patch with the same wall material or fill with spray foam.

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4. Remove scuffs

Use a piece of extra-fine steel wool to remove dirt and marks on rubber shoe soles. It works quicker than a toothbrush with less elbow grease.

Katja Cho

5. De-gunk car rims

Skip the bulky brush and opt for extra-fine steel wool, which easily fits between spokes. Combined with dish soap, it cuts through grime and grease so metal rims and wheel covers shine again.

DID YOU KNOW?

Steel wool became popular around World War I, when aluminum cookware replaced cast iron.